McKenzie River Waterfalls & Blue Pool Hike

The journey to the hidden pool was nothing short of spectacular. The 40-minute hike, which you can easily track with GPS, takes you through mesmerizing landscapes that build anticipation with every step. As you near the pool, the final descent over rugged rocks is both thrilling and challenging. Here, caution is paramount—each step requires focus, as one wrong move could lead to a dangerous slip. Once you reach the pool, you’re greeted by a sight that feels straight out of a dream: crystal-clear waters with a brilliant, inviting blue hue. Despite the allure, the pool is icy cold, offering a bracing, invigorating experience. Most adventurers only dare to jump in for a quick, exhilarating dip before the chill sends them scrambling back to the warmth of the rocks. The water’s clarity and color are simply unforgettable, making this hike an experience that will linger in your memory long after you’ve left.

Adventurous hike and cold plunge!!! You need to climb a little bit to get there … which makes the hike very fun and attractive for many young and athletic people. However, if there’s something that limits your ability to climb some rocks (nothing too crazy) you should be able to do 3/4 of the hike still. If you are brave and jump into the water … spoiler alert: it’s VERY cold!!!! Still worthy to try the experience though. Bring a towel and enjoy this oasis ❤️.

Beautiful and the water is very cold - feels like an ice bath. Great hike very easy unless you want to go around and down to the water. That part is a little more challenging and there’s not really a trail for it. But the whole hike is quite easy and lovely the entire way.

This place was wayyyyy more amazing than any picture can ever show you . We took our 8 year daughter and also our 11 month old on one of those carry backpack. The whole trail leading to the lagoon is so amazing and beautiful. Once we got to the “hard” part we did take it slow but we made it . The water looks so crazy blue and the temperature woahhhhhh let me tell you it’s sooooooo freaking cold . Love doing cold plunges but this was like nothing I have ever experienced. But this is an experience you must do even my 8 year old got in .

One of the most amazing places in Oregon! The whole hike leaves you feeling like you’re in a magical forest like something out of a kids movie! I would definitely recommend this to anyone who can handle a small to medium hike. Things to note: First off, on google maps it directs you to a closed part of the trail. You can’t park there, and can’t go around the gate. BUT, the road sign directing you to “Blue pool” that says closed (down Dev. Rd 655), is surprisingly open. You also do not need to pay for parking. Go across the bridge and park in the parallel parking only section. Another thing to note is this is a very popular destination, I recommend coming here early in the morning to be the first ones there. The hike is about 2.3 miles, but is well worth it. You may be hesitant to stop before going down to the pool, I urge you to push forwards. Keep going on the trail around the rim of the pool, you will come to a first path that is hard to get down, don’t take that, keep going forwards and there will be an easier, but steep, path down. The most important thing though, PLEASE PICK UP YOUR TRASH, DO NOT DAMAGE THIS BEAUTIFUL PARK!